"Government of those Colonies one who has long served under, and is conversant with the forms and system of.
the Colonial ... may be cited as a circumstance in my favour, and for the rest I must rely on my character and position, my length of service in Hong Kong, ... for your Grace's consideration.
"6. though within the tropics is more favourable to health than that of Hong Kong, and I believe the change from Hong Kong would be beneficial as my personal health is concerned.
The climate of Singapore ... as far as I am concerned.
"7. The general similarity (especially as to the nature of population and pursuits) between this Colony and the Settlements of Singapore, etc., and the testimony already borne on my behalf by the Governors under whom I have worked.
"It may not be out of place to note that it was considered a qualification in a former Governor of Hong Kong that he had previously conducted the Government of the Straits Settlements."
(True Extract)
M. Alexander
Acting Colonial Secretary